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Wednesday, January 09, 2013

Adult literacy conference points to need for better education system

CHICAGO - Studies show one out of four Chicagoans lack the basic literacy skills to function competitively and communicate effectively in society. Despite billions of dollars being spent annually on schools, teachers and school administrators, the failure of Chicago's taxpayer-funded education system affects everything from high unemployment rate to violent crime and overcrowded prisons.

Low literacy is the root of many social and economic problems. The current system is failing, presenting a distressing need for adult literacy programs to fill in the gaps left by inadequate education choices.

The 22nd annual On the Road to Literacy conference, which will be held on March 23, 2013 from 9am to 3pm at the UIC Center for Literacy, 1040 W Harrison, Chicago, IL 60607, brings together the students, teachers and tutors, and administrators of the many literacy programs across Chicago and Illinois who are tackling the roots of low literacy.

The conference is presented by Literacy Volunteers of Illinois and the University of Illinois at Chicago Center for Literacy. Over the years, the conference has become a point of reference in surveying the achievements the literacy community has made and the challenges that lie ahead. Over 20 workshops throughout the day address the experiences of tutors, staff and students in their work together.

On the Road to Literacy Conference provides training and resources for tutors and students, but it also acts as a forum for discussion between dozens of agencies and exposes more effective ways of achieving shared goals. “This conference serves as an annual reminder that the work we are doing is critical to improving our society,” said Dorothy Miaso, Executive Director of Literacy Volunteers of Illinois.

Anyone can register to attend, whether you are a tutor, a student, or simply interested in the critical work that we do and what else needs to be done. Register at www.lvillinois.org under the link On The Road to Literacy.

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Adult literacy conference points to need for better education system

CHICAGO - Studies show one out of four Chicagoans lack the basic literacy skills to function competitively and communicate effectively in society. Despite billions of dollars being spent annually on schools, teachers and school administrators, the failure of Chicago's taxpayer-funded education system affects everything from high unemployment rate to violent crime and overcrowded prisons.

Low literacy is the root of many social and economic problems. The current system is failing, presenting a distressing need for adult literacy programs to fill in the gaps left by inadequate education choices.